Hosting get-togethers in my backyard is something I love to do!
But arranging and getting the space ready for these get-togethers is an entirely different story. Earlier I used to bug my husband to get the yard lit up.
He would take care of the wiring and power the outdoor lights by connecting them to the primary power supply of the house, while I took care of the food, drinks, and the entire set-up. Over time, establishing electrical connections became a hassle.
I didn’t want to bother him anymore, and luckily, I came across the Wen Generator while searching for power tools (for my lawn). Hi! It’s Stacy Smith, and today, I’ll be reviewing this generator to help you decide if it’s worth buying.
So, let’s begin!
What Is Wen Generator?
If you ask me, the Wen 56380i is a quiet and portable inverter generator. At quarter load, it manages to run at 57 decibels, generating sufficient backup power for RVs, tailgates, and campsites without making the noise of a regular generator.
Moreover, it’s designed with a collapsible handle and built-in wheels, making it easier for me to light up my lawn for evening get-togethers with family and friends. All you have to do is press the orange ignition switch for it to start.
How Does Wen Generator Work?
Equipped with the brand’s 212cc 4-stroke air-cooled OHV engine, Wen 56380i works to generate power up to 3,800 surge watts with a half-load runtime of 8.5 hours.
The power produced is clean without voltage spikes or drops, limiting harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent (no load) and 1.2 percent (full load). That’s why I trust that it’s safe enough to run even the most vulnerable electronic devices of my household, including tablets, laptops, and phones.
Wen Generator Features
Now it’s time to dive deeper and know about the functions offered by the model. Here I’ve briefly highlighted its important features to help you get a better understanding.
1. Digital Wattage Meter
It wasn't easy to monitor the runtime, fuel supply, and wattage of my previous generators. Luckily, Wen has managed to solve this problem by digitizing this generator model. Thanks to its easy-to-read digital display that provides all the information needed, I can now keep track of my generator’s frequency and voltage as well.
2. Lightweight Design
I’d take this opportunity to highlight this unit’s portability once again. It features a lightweight and compact design, measuring 23.2 inches in length, 18 inches in width, and 20.1 inches in height. Additionally, its built-in wheels and collapsible handle simplified transportation and storage for me.
3. Fuel Shut-Off
The one feature that impressed me the most is its low-oil or low-fuel automatic shutdown feature. You guessed it right - it automatically shuts off the unit on detecting low fuel in the 2.2-gallon tank.
But before shutting down, it makes sure to use up the remaining fuel in the carburetor to maximize the generator’s lifespan and limit the need for maintenance.
4. Eco-Mode Switch
Another interesting feature dedicated to improving the durability and energy efficiency of the Wen generator is the eco-mode switch. I prefer engaging my model in this mode to maximize its fuel economy. It allows the engine to automatically adjust fuel consumption to prevent the unnecessary usage of gasoline.
5. RV-Ready Generator
My husband and I have also taken this generator to RV sites for camping trips with family. Its TT-30R outlet provides up to 28 amps of quiet and clean power for RVs. But what sets it apart is the included spark arrestor that allows for use in all forests and national parks.
- Extremely quiet operation minimizes noise; EPA III Compliant
- 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts with a half-load runtime of up to 8.5 hours
- Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
FAQs
I wouldn’t expect a gasoline generator from Wen to run beyond its runtime, usually lasting for 6 to 12 hours. But this varies depending on fuel consumption and the amount of power being drawn.
The generator comes with a tank capacity of 2.2 gallons of gas and a pint of oil. Equipped with an OHV engine generating up to 3,800 watts (surge) of power, it weighs around 99 pounds.
The Wen generator comes with two three-prong 120V receptacles, using which you can connect it with another generator from the same brand to get more energy. All you need is a Wen parallel connection kit (sold separately) to share the wattage between two or more units.
Pros
Cons
Alternatives
1. Champion Power Equipment 200986
- QUIET TECHNOLOGY: 61 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, or camping with 4500 starting watts and 3500 running watts and up to 14 hours run time on only 2.3 gallons of gasoline.Gasoline Starting Amps at 120V : 37.5A, Gasoline Running Amps at 120V : 29.2A .
- PARALLEL READY: The optional parallel kit (sold separately) enables this inverter to connect with another 2800-watt or higher Champion inverter to double your output power
- INTELLIGAUGE: Monitor voltage, frequency and operating hours with ease, plus the EZ Start Dial simplifies startup while Economy Mode monitors power consumption in real time
- Up to 14 hours runtime on 2.3 gallons of gas
- 4-stroke 212cc OHV engine generates 3,500 Watts running power
- EZ start dial simplifies startup
2. A-iTech AT20-123001
- 2300 starting watts with 1800 running watts of clean and safe power for sensitive electronics such as phones, televisions, laptops, and so on (less than 3% THD)
- Powerful 80cc engine provides an abundant power supply yet runs at a super quiet operation of only 52 dBA which is perfect for home use, travel, camping, fishing, tailgating, boating, hiking and other emergency situations
- Complete with “Low idle” technology for an extended run time 6.5 hours at 50% load. This Economy Mode can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life and better fuel economy
- 6.5-hour runtime at 50% load and 4-hour runtime at 100% load
- Generates running power of 1,800 watts
- Super quiet operation at 52 decibels
- Supports quick start
3. Generac GP3000i
- Portable Power Solution: The GP3000i inverter generator is your go-to portable power source for outdoor adventures, from camping trips to tailgating events, ensuring stable power without disturbing your surroundings
- High Quality and Consistent Power: With TruePower Technology, this generator delivers clean power that's safe for sensitive electronics, tools, and appliances, so you can stay connected even in the great outdoors
- PowerRush Advance Technology: This portable open frame inverter generator offers over 50 percent more starting capacity, making it perfect for powering tools and motor-driven equipment, allowing you to accomplish more with ease
- Generates 2,300 watts running power
- 50% more starting capacity, allowing you to do more
- Power dial integrates start/run/stop functions
- TruePower Technology provides clean and stable power
Conclusion
That sums up the Wen Generator review, and I hope you’ve found it informative enough to make the right decision.
Now, you could choose any of the options mentioned in the previous section, but I’d personally choose the Wen Generator. The brand reputation did play a part in establishing trust in the product.
However, its portable design and “almost” noiseless operation are the two aspects that make it a winner, in my opinion. Of course, I have to also highlight the importance given to both safety and convenience here. Be it an RV or laptop; it can power anything without causing damage.
That’s all from my end. It’s time for me to take your leave. Till next time, take care!